Two papers examine the relationship between ethnicity and nationalism in the Soviet Union and in Yugoslavia. The first paper assesses the ethnicity in Soviet Central Asia. Because in recent years an increasing number of scholars has been placed in Soviet Central Asia, observation is now combined with commonly held hypotheses to determine regional and national dynamics in the USSR. Soviet Central Asia comprises an area one-half the United States. Major ethnic groups include Turkic (60%), Slavic (25%), and Iranian (5%). Relevant ethnic issues include the complexity of collective identity; saturation of opportunities and positions; manpower needs in other parts of the Soviet Union which have led to the proposal for population transfers; unevenness of birthrates for various ethnic groups; and interethnic relations. The second essay examines the national question in Yugoslavia. Written prior to the death of Tito, it suggests changes likely to occur after his death and considers the role of the United States in the country's affairs. Yugoslavia is characterized by rivalries among the six republics and two autonomous provinces which comprise the federation. The rivalries manifest themselves in economic and political issues. Since 1971 Yugoslav leaders have severely limited all manifestations of nationalism, while permitting the republics and provinces freedom to pursue their economic interests. The federal system grants each unit the right to veto economic and social legislation of which it does not approve. Most likely, the post-Tito period will be marked by greater assertiveness on the parts of the republics and a higher level of instability. The role of the United States is to develop policies aimed at sustaining a stable Yugoslavia and promoting the economic welfare of the country. (Author/KC)

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